DFS Aviation Services has introduced the first cloud-based air traffic control system in Germany.
DFS Aviation Services GmbH (DAS), which is a subsidiary of German air navigation service provider DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH, has implemented the cloud-based system Phoenix WebInnovation for air traffic control at the airport in Memmingen.
According DAS, Phoenix WebInnovation is the first of its kind and operates entirely in the public cloud. The platform has already been used as an enhanced information tool at smaller airports.
Phoenix WebInnovation is hosted on the Kubernetes platform of the company SysEleven, with which DAS has a long-standing partnership.
The system is being used for the first time at a commercial airport in Memmingen. Featuring a modern radar screen and an electronic flight strip system in the tower, the tool offers flexibility and operational efficiency. It can be operated independently of location and hardware, providing secure access to the public cloud.
Phoenix WebInnovation was developed by DAS with the involvement of air traffic controllers. It includes an electronic flight strip system to replace the paper strips previously used, tailored to the special operational requirements of air traffic controllers at airports.
“The use of Phoenix WebInnovation reduces the coordination effort and workload of the controllers, which significantly supports the growth and efficiency targets. In addition, the next step will be to improve data exchange between the airport and air traffic control, which will increase data quality for all parties involved and make flight operations even more reliable,” said Ralf Schmid, managing director at Memmingen Airport.
“The introduction of our cloud-based air traffic control system at a commercial airport is a significant success for DAS and the air traffic control industry,” said Andreas Pötzsch, managing director at DAS. “With the introduction of cloud technology, we are ushering in a new era of efficiency, reliability and digitalisation in air traffic management.”